TIJDSBEELD

(Sign of the Times, Zeitbild, Image d’une époque…)

BASE2545 / Tijdsbeeld

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With ‘Tijdsbeeld’, BASE2545 brings together contemporary ideas from the worlds of thought, writing, music, science, art and journalism with the craftsmanship of traditional trades. Each ‘Tijdsbeeld’ begins with a thought or reflection by a contemporary thinker, which is translated by a craftsperson into a tangible work.

These works are not illustrations of a text or theory, rather, they emerge from a dialogue between idea, material and craftsmanship. The making process, often slow, attentive and labour-intensive, gives our ‘Tijdsbeelden’ a strong physical presence. The result is a series of objects that can be read both intellectually and sensorially, inviting people to look, sometimes to touch, and to reflect.

‘Tijdsbeeld’ is a long-term project. Between 2025 and 2045, BASE2545 aims to create a series of works that, over twenty years, will form a material archive of the questions and sensibilities of our time.

Private individuals, organisations and companies who wish to initiate their own Tijdsbeeld can contact BASE2545 to explore a collaboration.

FROM IDEA TO ARTWORK

BASE2545 / From idea to artwork

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A sculpture, photograph or mural, but also a soundscape, a text piece, personalized wallpaper, or a custom-made comic, nothing is impossible: at BASE2545 we translate your story into a unique artwork, created by the hands of our artisans and artists.

In a world of mass production and fleeting trends, we deliberately choose uniqueness and craftsmanship. True craft is more than manual skill, it is an ode to timeless design, to materials with character, and to human mastery that transcends generations.

With BASE2545, you do not simply own a work that enriches your interior, garden, or business, but above all a creation that makes your personal story visible.

Hence, BASE2545: a unique project that, between 2025 and 2045, creates an image of the time on behalf of individuals, companies, and public institutions, carried by the knowledge and expertise of our craftsmen.

With BASE2545, you do not simply own a work that enriches your interior, garden, or business, but above all a creation that makes your personal story visible.

Hence, BASE2545: a unique project that, between 2025 and 2045, creates an image of the time on behalf of individuals, companies, and public institutions, carried by the knowledge and expertise of our craftsmen.

Our approach

BASE2545 / Approach

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  • The base.
    Your story.

    Every artwork we create begins with your idea or starting point.

  • Creative
    translation.

    We design, develop a creative proposal and introduce you to the work of our craftsmen.

  • Design
    & materials.

    Together we define the form, the materials, the production process, the budget and the planning.

  • Craftsmanship
    in action.

    We begin the production of your personal artwork and deliver or install it at the location of your choice.

BASE2545 translates our customers’ ideas and wishes into sketches and unique creations. With the expertise of our craftsmen, we realise customised work, from small objects to sculptures and tapestries, from pavilions to light installations, each with its own character.

The Guild of Arts & Crafts

BASE2545 / The Guild

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Unlock Exclusive Artistic Experiences and Benefits with
‘THE GUILD OF ARTS & CRAFTS’

Are you fascinated by art, design and artisanal craftsmanship? Do you want to learn more about the stories behind extraordinary creations and the masters who make them? The Guild of Arts & Crafts is the community for lovers of timeless beauty and authentic craft.

At least three times a year we experience art and craft up close through inspiring encounters, both in front of and behind the scenes. In addition, you’ll receive our quarterly magazine Beeldschrift with current stories about remarkable artists, studios and unique creations.

Become a member.
As a member you will
have access to:

  • three guided exhibitions, studio visits with talented makers or a behind-the-scenes look at creative processes
  • the quarterly magazine Beeldschrift with the latest insights on art and craft
  • receive a 10% discount on our limited annual edition, with 12 exceptional pieces, starting at €750.
  • extraordinary journeys to Europe’s art cities, off the beaten path, with a 5% members’ discount

Membership to
The Guild of
Arts & Crafts

  • Membership starts at €490 per year.
  • Want to join together? Choose the duo membership at €690 per year for two people.
  • Companies can also participate, allowing several colleagues to take part in the activities.
  • Not ready to become a member but still curious? You can also register for activities individually.

Our 2025–2026 program will be available soon.

Program 2026.

TEAM

BASE2545 / Team

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Christoph Ruys and Nick Van Heck are the initiators of BASE2545.

Christoph Ruys previously served as Professor of the History of Photography and Contemporary Visual Culture at LUCA School of Arts in Brussels. He was also Director of the PhotoMuseum Antwerp and the Fashion Museum Antwerp, and acted as senior publisher at Ludion Art Books. Today, his focus lies in BASE254, curating exhibitions and writing, where he continues to explore and translate visual culture into meaningful narratives.

Nick Van Heck brings his background as a breakthrough architect into a broader artistic and conceptual field. His work has long shown how creativity and imagination, principles often rooted in the arts, can open new perspectives for organizations. With BASE2545, he extends this vision, blending artistic sensibility with human and entrepreneurial creativity.

Together, they shape BASE2545 as a space where craftsmanship, imagination and personal stories converge into an image of the time 2025 till 2045, created in collaboration with around forty dedicated artisans and makers.

Nick Van Heck brings his background as a breakthrough architect into a broader artistic and conceptual field. His work has long shown how creativity and imagination, principles often rooted in the arts, can open new perspectives for organizations. With BASE2545, he extends this vision, blending artistic sensibility with human and entrepreneurial creativity.

Together, they shape BASE2545 as a space where craftsmanship, imagination and personal stories converge into an image of the time 2025 till 2045, created in collaboration with around forty dedicated artisans and makers.